Undergraduate Research Information

Undergraduate Research Participation

Research is a fundamental component of psychological science. Learning about psychology involves learning about the research process, and research participation provides a hands-on opportunity to become familiar with how research is conducted. This option gives you experience as a participant in actual psychology experiments. You will also have the opportunity to learn more about yourself and your behavior in these studies. There are many different kinds of studies conducted in our department. For example, you might be asked to complete questionnaires, to view videos, to listen to music or conversations, to interact with others in a group, or to make judgments on a computer.

All studies are reviewed and approved in advance by the Roger Williams University Institutional Review Board. When you arrive at each study, the investigator will explain that particular study to you and you will have a chance to ask any questions you may have about participation. If you decide to participate in the study, you will be given a written explanation of the study and asked to give your consent to participate. Even after you have consented and have started to participate, it is always up to you to decide whether to continue.

The sign-up procedure uses a web-based system called Sona Systems which allows you to sign up for studies on-line. The procedure for signing up for experiments is detailed in the document which can be linked below. If you have additional questions after reading this document check the Frequently Asked Questions, located on the Sona Systems webpage.

A complete explanation of research requirements can viewed in the Instructions for Research Participation.